The Dog Days of Summer have arrived in T-Town! Keirin Racing comes to the track tonight as well as a 10 mile endurance race. Keirin racing is some the most exciting track racing to watch. Riders are paced behind a motorized cycle that gradually increases the rider’s speed on each lap until the last 600-700m when the pacer pulls off and the riders sprint to the finish crossing the line at 40+ MPH! Stay tuned for the report from the track following tonight’s action.
Come out this Friday night, June 14th, to watch some of the best cyclists in the world compete in the Keirin Cup, a fan favorite that has such a long standing tradition in the sport. The night will also feature the 10-Mile championship for the endurance riders to see who has he most steam to outlast the competition and ride home with the top spot. This Friday night is sure to impress with the level of competition we have in T-Town.
On the promotional side of the night, bring your dog to Valley Preferred Cycling Center is this Friday for the first of three dates in our Dog Days of Summer Series. Dog admission is $1.00 at the gates, which open at 6:00PM. All proceeds from dog admission will go to The Sanctuary at Haafsville.
The Sanctuary at Haafsville offers a nurturing environment for stray, feral, homeless, needy, and abandoned animals. The Sanctuary is home to animals in many different life circumstances.
Animals whose owners are seeking safety for their animals
Animals whose owners are being sent overseas for military duty
Companion animals of senior citizens who are temporarily hospitalized or enter a senior care facility
Geriatric animals whose owners can no longer keep them
The next dates in our Dog Days of Summer Series will be July 12th and August 16th, where there will be different animal charities as beneficiaries.
There will be dog themed activities throughout the night, so bring your canine companions out to the track, and help out a great cause at the same time.
On deck for next week is the UCI Festival of Speed presented by EnduroPacks.
This season will be one of the most exciting every at Valley Preferred . From games and contests, to special offers and promotions, and as always, world-class racing, Friday nights in T-Town are going to feature excitement from start to finish. So come to Valley Preferred Cycling Center this, and every Friday night for an experience unlike any other.
You know I get chastised for it and I’m fine with that frankly but ‘dag gum’ the IronPigs keep coming up with fresh stuff that adds to the Coca-Cola Park experience. Who keeps thinking this stuff up?
While we certainly hope the Pigs Ride the Rails to the trophy, it makes me wonder if Lehigh Valley GM Kurt Landes has gone clothes shopping and has the lyrics to Purple Rain on his iPhone?!?
I can only imagine what they have planned for the Gildan AAA National Championship Game! (ticket link below)
OFFICIAL IRONPIGS NEWS
For Immediate Release
June 13, 2013
IRONPIGS AND RAILRIDERS ANNOUNCE “IRONRAIL” TROPHY SERIES
IronPigs-RailRiders Season Series Winner to be Receive Annual IronRail Series Trophy
(Allentown, Pa.) – The winner of the annual 16-game series between the IronPigs and the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders will capture the IronRail Trophy along with a number of other unique bragging rights and incentives, the two clubs announced today. The 2013 IronRail series kicks off tonight at 7:05 p.m. in the opening game of a four-game series between the rivals at Coca-Cola Park.
“There is no bigger rival to our ballclub than the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders,” remarked IronPigs General Manager Kurt Landes. “The IronRail trophy will come to symbolize the heritage and history of our respective communities and, over time, this rivalry.”
The winning team will capture the IronRail Trophy, currently being commissioned from a piece of reconditioned railroad track iron, along with the following “perks” from the losing club:
· The General Manager of the losing team will sing a stirring rendition of a song of the winning team’s choice while dressed in a fat lady suit (hence, the “Fat Lady has sung”) and be played for the opposing team’s fans on their videoboard after every home game victory between the two clubs in 2014 and beyond.
· An extraordinary team feed provided for the winning team and field staff.
· Bragging rights for the next year as the IronRail trophy will be on display in the winning team’s ballpark throughout the 2014 season and so forth.
Added RailRiders General Manager Rob Crain: “We want IronPig blood and I can’t wait to hear Landes squeal a few bars dressed in a fat lady suit.”
Scranton/Wilkes-Barre owns a 48-32 lead in the all-time series dating back to Lehigh Valley’s inaugural 2008 season although the two clubs split the season series in 2012. In the event of an 8-8 tie in future seasons, the club that wins the final regular season game will be deemed the IronRail Series Trophy winner.
Great seats are still available for all upcoming games, including the 2013 Gildan Triple-A National Championship Game on September 17 at Coca-Cola Park, and can be purchased in-person at Coca-Cola Park (Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.), by calling (610) 841-PIGS (7447) or online at ironpigsbaseball.com. Two brand-new seating areas, the “Hot Corner” and the “Bacon Strip” have been added to Coca-Cola Park this season, offering IronPigs fans the most unique and distinctive seating and hospitality areas in all of Minor League Baseball.
Single-game tickets, mini-plan packages and group tickets for all IronPigs home games presented by Capital BlueCross, are on sale now and can be purchased at the Coca-Cola Park Ticket Office, online at http://www.ironpigsbaseball.com or by calling (610) 841-PIGS.
– where pigs fly –
Jon Schaeffer
Director, New Media
Lehigh Valley IronPigs
Triple-A Affiliate, Philadelphia Phillies
First, please forgive me for getting a little personal but on Saturday night my daughter graduated High-School and I gotta tell ya it was a proud moment for this father! Consequently, I didn’t make it to the Velodrome but look forward to next week’s report from T-Town.
Following the festivities at Stabler Arena as usual I made my way to a Lehigh Valley IronPigs’ game at Coca-Cola Park. Honestly though, I didn’t actually see much from the field of play but I was at the Park – promise ya that.
What I did see (on TV) and hear from the voice in my head radio was that the IronPigs offense is simply on FIRE and the pitching is not too shabby either – and – the IronPigs reached .500 since the first time way back in April just two weeks into the season.
Cody Overbeck and Darin Ruf each went 3 for 5 – Cody had 3 RBI’s and Ruf 2. Mini Mart ‘Super Mart’ as The Voice so named him (Michael Martinez) went 3-for-4 and hit his 2nd dinger in 4 games! In my best “Madden Voice” – here’s a guy trying to make is way back to the bigs – boom! In all, the IronPigs tallied 14 hits including 5 doubles and are now hitting a collective .265 – good enough for 4th in the International League.
The IronPhillies are lucky at this point to have such problems!
We are witnessing the talent mature at this point in the season after what seemed a sometimes painful start. Recently I asked Josh Fields and Steven Lerud about the team “jelling” and playing some quality ball and they almost seemed offended I was even asking. Since then I understand why – they knew - this is a good team that can (and will) play some great, entertaining ball – it’s fun!
There is certainly some fine young talent here from the aforementioned Darin Ruf to Cody Asche and the list goes on. Combine that with the already existing talent from the likes of Josh ‘Okie’ Fields, Cody Overbeck, Pete Orr, along with Jermaine Mitchell and I would venture to say this is the most talented IronPigs team – ever. The Pigs have been producing runs at will and have won 7 of their last 9 since the 4 game losing streak in Rochester. Did I mention the IronPhillies are lucky to have such problems?
Both teams have been painful to watch at times – no doubt. However, lately they both have been on a surge, mostly thanks to the talent brewed in the Lehigh Valley ala ‘Downtown’ Domonic Brown, Freddy Galvis, César Hernández, Erik Kratz, etc, etc.
In fact, I count 15 out of the 25 man roster that have worn an IronPigs uniform in the last 2 years (not counting Utley and Howard’s rehab appearances). Is that good or bad? Only time will tell.
Speaking of ‘Kratzie,’ let’s hope he’s ok after hearing his knee pop while running to 1st, but Charlie Manuel was quoted as saying, ”It’s not good, It doesn’t look good.” A shame for Kratzie really who was on an offensive (and defensive) tear. Hopefully, Erik will make his way back in short order! If by some chance he doesn’t, here’s a guy who has dreamt of wearing Philly pinstripes since a young boy and actually did it. How many people can say they fulfilled their childhood, life-long dream? Not many! Godspeed Kratzie!!
Bottom line is, say what you will Philly fans (and reporters) but barring anything outrageous (and anything is possible) – watch the future World Series Champions emerge. Mark it down! (so I’m an optimist)
Certainly looking forward to the report from Kram209 who was scouting The Reading Fightins this Saturday night where they split a pair with the Harrisburg Senators in a makeup doubleheader. Jesse Biddle completed the first game receiving the loss (1-0) by giving up a solo homer in the top of the 7th. Big Z – Carlos Zambrano tossed the 2nd game and came away with a win! How they lookin’ Kram?
Recently turned 32, 3x all-star, 3x Silver Slugger (yes he can hit), no hit pitcher, 100+ game winner, and 12 year Major Leaguer, Zambrano is certainly an interesting story. From the Gatorade beat down to scuffles with teammates and even missing the bus plane, Carlos has some great pitching and hitting history. This guy after threatening retirement many times just can’t stop playing baseball. Regardless of his anger issues this man is a true competitor and even if he never throws a pitch in the ‘bigs’ again there are a lot of young pitchers who can learn from ‘Z’. Jesse Biddle you listening? Compete like Carlos (without the anger issues) and win a Cy Young! Mark it Down! (optimism remember)
Back at Coca-Cola Park, the Red Robin Tiki Terrace was open after the game for the 2nd Saturday in a row with live music. If you haven’t taken the opportunity I urge you to do so. Not only are most (if not all) of the IronPigs’ ‘family’ out there, so are many of the players. Everyone is relaxed (especially after a win) and it’s a great chance to get some words with them – it’s fun!
I may say this often and perhaps a bit too much but GM Kurt Landes and the staff he has surrounded himself with are second to none – period. It’s certainly part of what keeps me coming back to every single game and what makes the IronPigs the number 1 draw in all of Minor League Baseball. Also, and I probably mentioned this before too but the new folks who have only joined us this year are simply wonderful. Every one of them I have met has been the utmost professional and has brought a new and fresh perspective to Coca-Cola Park and they deserve a well earned – Thank You!
As mentioned if you spend some time after the game at the Tiki Terrace you may be lucky enough to catch up with a player or 2 and I gotta say that I take advantage of it whenever I can – it’s fun!
Jermaine Mitchell (J-Mitch) was the first I ran into this past Saturday night. Here’s a guy who’s in his 8th year playing for his 6th different team. I figure he’s seen some stuff ya know? I’ve been curious to quiz a veteran player about this year’s coaching staff and J. Mitch was the perfect candidate.
I mentioned to J-Mitch about players perhaps receiving different viewpoints depending on if they are with the Phillies or the IronPigs and which particular coach they were getting advice from. Mitchell could not have given a better answer. He said and I paraphrase, “Listen, it doesn’t matter which coach tells you what. It is up to the player to make it happen.” True enough and I appreciate Mitchell’s honesty. Let’s be honest, I appreciate the opportunity to get a chance to talk with these guys now and again – it’s fun!
Oh right the game…
Important Note: Phillippe Aumont after some recent struggles went 1 and 2/3 innings and surrendered no hits, no runs, not a single walk and struck out 4! Keep it going Phillippe!
Please let The Voice of the IronPigs Radio Network Matt Provence tell you the rest cuz who better?
We’ll do it all again in a few hours – game time on Sunday – 1:35 pm.
Not sure about riding my bicycle but I’m sure the folks at Trexlertown’s Valley Preferred Cycling Center do! However without rain tires opening night has been postponed until tomorrow evening.
OFFICIAL NEWS FROM VALLEY PREFERRED CYCLING CENTER FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 7, 2013
Due to inclement weather, tonight’s US Sprint Gran Prix at Valley Preferred Cycling Center has been postponed. The race is rescheduled for Saturday, June 8th at 7:30PM. Gates will open at 6:00PM. Sprint qualifying will begin at 5:00PM.
The First Drink on Us promotion will still be in place for Saturday’s race. All coupons for June 7th will be honored.
All First Niagara Masters and Rookies and Bear Creek Futures Stars events previously scheduled for Saturday have been canceled.
About Valley Preferred Cycling Center
Valley Preferred Cycling Center (formerly Lehigh Valley Velodrome) is managed by a non-profit 501(c)(3) foundation and is the most prestigious professional cycling track in North America. Valley Preferred Cycling Center has hosted a full spectrum of world-class events throughout its history, including numerous national championships, world cups, world championships, and the 1996 Olympic Trials.
From April through September, Valley Preferred Cycling Center hosts professional cycling events, amateur events, youth bicycle racing leagues, and developmental cycling courses for all ages. The Valley Preferred Cycling Center is committed to providing the community with cycling programs that promote education, fitness, and healthy competition.
Shane Baglini
Marketing/ Communications Assistant
Valley Preferred Cycling Center
The Bicycle Racing Capital of the World
Behind some key hitting Zach Miner threw 7 strong innings surrendering 3 hits, 1 run while giving up 1 walk and striking out 6. The hitting was led by (as Matt Provence called it SUPER Mart) Michael Martinez with a 4-4 effort and 2 RBIs via a 2 run homerun. Pete Orr went 3-5 with some clutch hitting by Steve Susdorf all while Josh ‘Okie’ Fields’ hit streak lives.
At yesterday’s autograph session Cody mentioned he was at the Black Forest Deli. When I asked him what he had he told me he was kidding and didn’t really go. Apparently just mention of the place is magic!
During research for my earlier post, I reached out to Donny Knepper who created LiftTheBan.net - a campaign to reinstate Pete Rose. Donny was kind enough to offer his unique thoughts on the matter while making it clear he does not have any knowledge of this particular event.
Mr. Knepper has presented a different spin on perhaps why Pete Rose’s visit to the Lehigh Valley IronPigs’ Coca-Cola Park was canceled. The Wall Street Journal article I cited before mentions Pete has a contract with Hit King, Inc. that runs through 2017 which Donny mentions below.
For anyone interested in still meeting Pete and getting an autograph he is scheduled (at this time) to appear on June 15th at County Line Fence and Outdoor Products in Warrington, PA – details here. Perhaps we’ll get a few words from Pete on that day and if fit to post they will certainly appear on this site.
Reply from Donny Knepper – LiftTheBan.net
Thank you for contacting me. I am the President & Co-Founder of Lift the Ban, LLC. We are the fan-based campaign to reinstate Pete Rose. You can find us online at LiftTheBan.net. We launched the campaign in February 2012. We proceed under the theory that if the fans come together and demand that Pete Rose be reinstated, then MLB will take corrective action.
The ban is the product of a private contract between Pete and MLB; and just like any other contract it is rescindable at the will of the parties. Lift the Ban strives towards placing social pressure on MLB so that it has some motivation to lift this ridiculous ban.
As for the cancellation of Pete’s Fathers Day appearance, I don’t have any personal knowledge of exactly what happened or who made the decision to cancel the event. I understand that many people are turned off by: (1) Pete charging a fee for his autograph; and (2) the strict parameters limiting what Pete will sign. It certainly does not help his public image, not that Pete really cares. I am sure there are many people who blame Pete even though it is not entirely his fault.
As you stated in your article, this is how Pete makes his living. A lot of people do not realize that there is an entire sub-culture dedicated to collecting sports memorabilia. Almost every notable former athlete is involved in the industry to one degree or another. They all have agents and most of them have contracts with companies who are in the sports memorabilia business. The former athlete is usually restricted by that contract and so can only sign certain things such as photographs and baseballs that are also manufactured by that same memorabilia business.
My guess, although I cannot be sure, is that the company who has a contract with Pete is the one who put the kibosh on the IronPigs event. Pete, by autographing an IronPigs baseball, violates his contract with the memorabilia company.
Pete Rose is still obsessed with his numbers. At any given signing-event he wants to achieve certain numbers; a certain number of items signed and a certain number of dollars earned. I don’t believe he does this out of greed for money. He is driven by something internal to achieve those numbers. In this regard, he is still the same Pete Rose that we watched surpass Ty Cobb. If he is not going to be able to accumulate numbers at a given event then Pete has no incentive to perform.
If you have ever been to an event where Pete is signing autographs then you know that he grinds out some autograph signing. It is one autograph after another after another after another until the damn thing is done. He takes very little time to chat with the person receiving the autograph. The guy hardly even looks up.
If you want to talk to Pete and get some good war stories then you have to hook up with him in Vegas where he lives and works. His job is signing autographs but he seems to have more leeway on what he can and cannot sign when he is in Vegas. Again, it all comes down to the different contracts.
Pete is certainly susceptible to all sorts of criticism for how he chooses to earn a living. I form no opinions on the matter. Pete is free to live his life any way he wants. Through running Lift the Ban I have heard many stories of Pete acting like a jerk. Those stories don’t matter to me either. We did not launch Lift the Ban because Pete Rose is a nice guy; rather we launched Lift the Ban because Pete Rose’s spirit is aligned with all that is good about baseball. Pete Rose provides the blueprint on how to earn success. In this seemingly never-ending era of artificial enhancement, MLB should be holding Pete Rose up as the example of what is possible with blue-collar desire and consistent effort. The banishment of Pete Rose is harmful to the soul of baseball and it has hurt Pete Rose to his core.
Lift the Ban is about more than entry into the Hall of Fame, it is about reinstatement into baseball. The ban does way more than keep Pete out of the HOF.
I hope this email is helpful. As I said, I have no specific information about the IronPigs event and so the best I can do is provide you with an educated guess.
Donny Knepper
– Donald M. Knepper, Esquire The Law Offices of Donny Knepper, LLC
RT @ToddZolecki: You wonder if Sandberg keeps rolling the dice because he sees an anemic offense that rarely knocks in runs. Figures the ri… 4 hours ago
